Largest Universities in Missouri

The state of Missouri is home to a number of prestigious and influential universities that contribute significantly to higher education, research, and the state’s cultural and economic landscape. Among the largest and most notable universities in Missouri are the University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri State University, and Saint Louis University.

The University of Missouri-Columbia, commonly known as Mizzou or MU, stands as the largest public university in the state and one of the most prominent institutions in the Midwest. Established in 1839 as the first public institution of higher learning west of the Mississippi River, Mizzou has grown to become a cornerstone of Missouri’s educational system. Its mission is deeply tied to its origins as a land-grant university, with a focus on serving the public and enhancing the welfare of its community. This mission is evident in its comprehensive academic programs, vast research capabilities, and significant impact on both state and national levels.

In the fall of 2010, Mizzou welcomed a record-breaking 32,415 students, demonstrating its status as a highly attractive choice for students from Missouri, the United States, and beyond. The university’s student body reflects a rich diversity, encompassing representatives from every county in Missouri, all 50 states, and over 115 countries. This global reach underscores Mizzou’s reputation as an institution that fosters cross-cultural learning and provides students with a truly diverse educational experience.

Mizzou is also well-regarded for its extensive facilities and resources. Among its most notable assets is the Mizzou Student Recreation Complex, which ranks among the 10 largest facilities of its kind in the country. This complex is a testament to the university's commitment to supporting not just academic excellence but also student well-being and recreational pursuits. Moreover, Mizzou is recognized as a leader in research, particularly in the field of nuclear science. The university is home to the nation’s most powerful university research reactor, which plays a critical role in the production of radioisotopes for diagnosing and treating cancer. This facility has positioned Mizzou as the largest producer of such radioisotopes in the U.S., showcasing its capacity to contribute significantly to medical advancements and public health.

Missouri State University (MSU), located in Springfield, is the second largest university in the state and has carved out a significant niche in Missouri’s educational landscape. Founded in 1905, MSU has developed into a comprehensive institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university’s College of Business Administration is the largest in the state and is fully accredited by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB), a distinction that underscores the quality and rigor of its business programs. This accreditation is highly respected in the field and indicates that MSU’s business school meets or exceeds the high standards of education, faculty qualifications, and research expectations set by the global business community.

MSU’s academic offerings extend well beyond the College of Business. The university provides a strong foundation in fields such as education, health sciences, engineering, and the arts, making it a critical institution for preparing Missouri’s workforce in a variety of sectors. MSU is known for its community-oriented programs, which emphasize hands-on learning and partnerships with local organizations. The university's emphasis on experiential learning helps students build practical skills and gain real-world experience that can translate into successful careers after graduation.

Saint Louis University (SLU), the third largest university in Missouri, holds a place of great distinction not only in the state but also in the broader U.S. higher education landscape. Founded in 1818, SLU is the oldest university west of the Mississippi and the second oldest Jesuit university in the country. This long history has shaped the university’s values and mission, which are deeply rooted in the Jesuit principles of academic excellence, service to others, and the pursuit of justice. SLU’s commitment to these values has earned it a reputation as one of the top research institutions in the nation, with a strong emphasis on both teaching and research across various disciplines.

SLU’s Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology is particularly notable for its pioneering contributions to the field of aviation. It is recognized as the first federally certified flight school in the United States, which highlights the university’s long-standing leadership in providing quality education and training in aviation and engineering. This unique distinction has made SLU a go-to institution for students interested in pursuing careers in these fields. Beyond its engineering and aviation programs, SLU offers a diverse range of academic programs in the arts, sciences, business, health, and law, all of which contribute to its status as a top-tier research university.

In addition to its academic and research strengths, Saint Louis University is known for its vibrant campus life, commitment to community service, and active participation in social and civic initiatives. The university's location in St. Louis provides students with access to a metropolitan environment rich in cultural, professional, and social opportunities. The university’s strong ties to the local community and its global outlook are integral to its identity, making it a place where students are not only educated but also inspired to make a meaningful impact in the world.

The University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri State University, and Saint Louis University each contribute in significant ways to Missouri’s status as a hub for higher education. They serve as pillars of knowledge and innovation, preparing thousands of students each year to meet the challenges of the future. Whether through Mizzou’s groundbreaking research in nuclear science, Missouri State’s comprehensive academic programs and business school, or Saint Louis University’s historical roots and leadership in aviation education, these universities represent the best of what Missouri has to offer in terms of education, research, and community service. Their continued growth and success are vital not only to the state of Missouri but to the nation as a whole, as they help to cultivate the next generation of leaders, professionals, and scholars.